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DeCastro may not be put on IR for a few weeks yet

Browsing through Twitter this morning and came across Ed Bouchette's tweet in reference to his column talking about Wallace starting, Harrison and Worilds practicing, etc. but also some info as to why Essex has not yet been brought back and also why DeCastro is still on the active roster.

The Steelers did not make a roster move Monday and might not do so until next week -- or even a few more -- for several reasons.

They can put rookie offensive guard David DeCastro on injured reserve with the new special designation that he can be brought back in eight weeks. At the moment, he is on the 53-man roster. DeCastro's injury, which included a torn MCL, will keep him out longer than eight weeks, it has been determined.

If they do nothing now, they keep their options open in case they have another such injury, perhaps to a more vital player they would rather designate for the eight-week injured-reserve spot. Only one player can be given that designation.

Also, if they at least wait until after the first game, put DeCastro on the eight-week injured reserve and re-sign veteran offensive lineman Trai Essex, Essex's salary for this season will not be guaranteed. If they sign him before the first game, he would receive his entire salary -- and it would count against their cap -- no matter what.

I don't get it. This makes no sense to me. I had no idea who the Steelers may have used that roster spot on, but I was hoping it was ST player who came in and made a game changing big play like maybe forcing a fumble on a punt that led to a game winning score etc. etc.

Why would they wait? The rule reads "One thing about the new rule is you are not required to bring the player back after eight weeks. If, for example, DeCastro is not deemed ready after eight weeks, they can keep him on IR and pull him off when they want, say after 12 weeks."

Why wait? What if he really is ready at six weeks to practice and 8 weeks to play. He has to be on the IR for at least 8 weeks. Any delay would negate his chance to play that week. This makes no sense to me. But then again, trying to figure out the Steelers strategy on matters like this I am Zero for Ever.

It is early in the day, however. What time do those league offices close?

BRC said: Browsing through Twitter this morning and came across Ed Bouchette's tweet in reference to his column talking about Wallace starting, Harrison and Worilds practicing, etc. but also some info as to why Essex has not yet been brought back and also why DeCastro is still on the active roster.

The Steelers did not make a roster move Monday and might not do so until next week -- or even a few more -- for several reasons.

They can put rookie offensive guard David DeCastro on injured reserve with the new special designation that he can be brought back in eight weeks. At the moment, he is on the 53-man roster. DeCastro's injury, which included a torn MCL, will keep him out longer than eight weeks, it has been determined.

If they do nothing now, they keep their options open in case they have another such injury, perhaps to a more vital player they would rather designate for the eight-week injured-reserve spot. Only one player can be given that designation.

Sep 4 was the day that players could be designated for that IR rule.

In another thread the possibility of waiting a bit and using the PUP rule for DD was mentioned. Suggesting a recovery sooner than expected. But, the most likely reason is that rule about the guaranteed salary.

If 8 weeks is the minimum for the IR'd player to return then why delay.? I also disagree with Essex returning. More than likely he would not even be activated.

I am surprised at the little interest in this matter. Hey! This move could impact this entire season in a very big way.

Also, if they at least wait until after the first game, put DeCastro on the eight-week injured reserve and re-sign veteran offensive lineman Trai Essex, Essex's salary for this season will not be guaranteed. If they sign him before the first game, he would receive his entire salary -- and it would count against their cap -- no matter what.